After a 20-year campaign, a major cycle network linking the north and south of Cambridge, has finally been given the green light.

The long-awaited "Chisholm Trail" cycle route will provide a safe and direct route for people to walk and cycle between Addenbrooke's and the science park. It will connect cyclists to railway stations, work places, schools, heritage sites and residential areas.

The first part of the trail has now been granted planning permission and will create a link from Coldham’s Lane to the Abbey-Chesterton bridge (approved in February 2017) and onwards to the new Cambridge North station.

The route will use land next to the railway and a new underpass at Newmarket Road, keeping it separate from cars.

The Chisholm Trail map. The segregated cycle route will run from north to south in Cambridge

A county council funded bridge, costing an estimated £4.5million, will connect the north and south banks of the River Cam at Ditton Meadows.

The first part of the project was given the green light at Cambridge City Council’s joint development control committee yesterday (July 19).

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Cycling Campaigner Jim Chisholm, after whom the route is named, welcomed the decision, saying it is notable that the committee approved the plans unanimously.

Cycle campaigner Jim Chisholm

He said: “I think it is positive that the council has passed it unanimously, which shows an unusually high level of support. I think it is now onwards and upwards.”

The proposed routes of the Chisholm Trail

There has, however, been some opposition to the project, with Chris Smith of Friends of Coldham’s Common highlighting the situation of people currently sleeping rough on a patch of land between Coldham's Common and Newmarket Road, which is needed for the scheme. He has written to Cambridge City Council expressing concern for their wellbeing.

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Mr Chisholm noted the criticism, and said the rough sleepers had been living on the site “for years”. He said the problem of rough sleepers in Cambridge should be addressed properly, and said the land was not a suitable long-term home anyway.

The proposed cycle bridge over the River Cam

Camcycle has campaigned for the Chisholm Trail for nearly 20 years, ever since it was first proposed by Mr Chisholm.

Camcycle officer Roxanne De Beaux said: “We are pleased that councillors have recognised this vital cycling and walking route for Cambridge. The Chisholm Trail will make a difference to many Cambridge residents who are looking for safer ways to travel around the city.